Image: ChargePointThe ChargePoint Express Solo represents a groundbreaking product for the US company, setting several industry benchmarks. It is the first product based on ChargePoint’s new ‘Express DC fast charging architecture.’ As the company’s inaugural DC charging station, the Express Solo will also be available in Europe. Additionally, it features the first system developed jointly with Eaton for bidirectional charging and battery energy storage integration.The Express Solo delivers up to 600 kW of charging power at a single charging point. The all-in-one station is equipped with two charging cables, though ChargePoint’s announcement does not specify how the power is distributed between them.A standout feature is the compact dimensions of the all-in-one housing. “Express Solo delivers approximately 40% higher power density than other DC charging solutions in the industry’s smallest footprint,” according to ChargePoint. This allows for a high-performance, scalable charging solution to be installed in a space-saving manner, potentially reducing construction costs and cutting charging times thanks to its high power output.Another notable feature is the ability to connect an additional charging station as a dispenser to an Express Solo unit, utilising its integrated power electronics. According to ChargePoint, it enables up to four vehicles to share the electronics of a single station cost-effectively. The available power can then be distributed, for example, as 4x 150 kW.However, the company has not disclosed details on how finely this power distribution can be managed. Depending on demand, up to 600 kW can still be delivered to a single charging point. Image: ChargePointWith the dispenser expansion, EV drivers gain access to additional charging points, while operators can potentially increase revenue. The system also improves flexibility, as the Express Solo can be installed with future dispenser expansions already planned.As an all-in-one station that does not require an external switchgear cabinet, the Express Solo is particularly suited for use in locations ‘that demand fast charging in limited space, such as urban areas or petrol stations.’Fundamentally, ChargePoint aims to address the ‘four main challenges to scaling DC fast charging’ with its underlying architecture and future models. These challenges, as identified by the company, include grid constraints, higher charging power, reliability, and costs.The Express architecture is the first jointly developed solution by ChargePoint and Eaton, a specialist in intelligent energy management.“The companies’ innovative collaboration integrates EV charging hardware along with the necessary end-to-end power infrastructure to accelerate and simplify the deployment of EV charging. Together, the companies developed ChargePoint Express Grid powered by Eaton to deploy with lower capital investment, within a smaller footprint, and with lower operating costs when compared to similar DC charging solutions,” the announcement states. The Express Solo is designed to integrate seamlessly with on-site renewable energy sources, such as PV systems or stationary battery storage.“The Express DC fast charging architecture delivers differentiation. Not just by higher output, but by how economically, efficiently, and flexibly that power is delivered,” said Rick, CEO of ChargePoint. “xpress Solo combines unmatched power density, direct DC power inputs for solar integration and battery storage, and a modular architecture that scales with minimal cost and complexity. Collectively this redefines DC fast charging from a fixed asset into a futureready energy platform.”Additionally, given current market developments around electric vehicles in the US and local policies, the demand for DC solutions may not meet previously expected growth rates. As a result, ChargePoint is increasingly focusing on the European market. Whether the Express Solo can compete in the already developed EU market with established manufacturers—and whether ChargePoint’s European strategy will succeed—remains to be seen.Source: Information via e-mail